Gavin is a truly unique name, and a surprising find on the list of top boys' names in the US. It is also a relatively new name on the list. It entered the Top 100 list a decade ago, and was not even in the Top 1000 list fifty years ago. So, why is it as popular as it is? And will it get even more popular?
The origins of Gavin is mostly thought to be Gaelic, meaning "White Hawk." The fact that the popularity of the name in this era is relatively new, combined with the ancient origins of the name, allow modern parents to give their kids a "new" and unique name, while maintaining symbolic ties to Gaelic heritage.
Although 2009 saw a small decline in popularity for the name Gavin, it doesn't look like it's on its way down. It is a matter of time, after all, before a popular fictional character named Gavin grabs the attention of American parents.
2010 Update:
2010 saw another decline, to number 37. Is Gavin too unique to be more popular? Has it reached its peak? Or will it rise when the next famous Gavin appears?
